Articles
The Best Is Yet to Come
The Best Is Yet to Come
In my Father’s house are many dwelling places: if it were not so, I would have told you; for I go to prepare a place for you (John 14:2-3)
I don’t know what kind of music you like but as for me, I’m just an old country boy at heart and I love country music. I feel pretty sure that a lot of you, especially those who like myself are older, will recognize the name, Minnie Pearl. She was really a country comedian and she always began her show by shouting, “Howdy, I’m just so proud to be here.” You know, that is exactly the way I feel today as I sit here writing these words. I am so proud to have lived on this side of eternity for over 89 years and I want to stay here a little longer even though it does get a bit trying sometimes. Yet, as much as I love life here, I know this world is not my true home and neither is it yours; our citizenship is in heaven (Phil. 3:20).
We are all on a great journey that began the day we were born and each day we live just brings us a little closer to the day when this fleshly existence will come to an end. With every tick of the clock, with every sunrise we see, we are brought a little closer to the moment when we will step out into eternity to live forever. We just need to be living every waking moment as if we expect it to be our last one on this side of eternity. Deep emotions should be stirred up within our hearts as we think about the day when we will be absent from this physical body and be at home with the Lord (2 Cor. 5:6-9, Phil. 1:21). My friends, the best is yet to come for the faithful child of God (Revelation 21:1-5).
On this earthly journey we will often groan with the burdens that afflict our human frame, we will hurt and tears will flow from our eyes. But heaven is the promise of a better day for the child of God. The beauty, majesty and glory of that city not made with hands is far beyond anything that we have ever seen or heard on this side of eternity. Whatever burden we must bear, whatever trial or temptation we must endure, whatever sacrifice we have to make in order to one day hear those words, well done good and faithful servant, let us do it gladly because great will be our reward in heaven. “How beautiful heaven must be, sweet home of the happy and free.” The best is yet to come!
Every faithful child of God has a glorious hope residing in their heart that brings to them a measure of strength, courage, comfort and peace that gladdens their heart whatever their lot in this life happens to be. The song, Where We’ll Never Grow Old, holds a special place in my heart and the third verse of that song tugs mightily at my heartstrings: “When our work here is done and our life-crown is won, and our troubles and trials are o’er; All our sorrow will end, and our voices will blend, With the loved ones who’ve gone on before.” Truly, The Best Is Yet To Come!
Charles Hicks, Gallatin Tennessee
